James Walker

James Michael Walker, age 55 of Lee’s Summit MO passed away in Adel, Georgia Saturday, April 24th. Mike was born in Kansas City, MO to John and Mary Walker on March 7th, 1955. He attended Raytown High School and graduated in 1973. From an early age, Mike had a passion for cars. He began his career in the automotive industry at Cable Chevrolet in 1975. After 27 years with the dealership, he accepted a partner position at Dahmer Powertrain, Inc. in 2002 where he served as Executive Vice President with a focus in purchasing and inventory control. Mike’s passion away from work was drag racing. He was part owner of a Pro Modified racing team with Blake and Terry Housley. The blended family team was a fulfillment of his dreams. Mike was also a musician, had a great love for aviation and made the best spaghetti sauce in the world. Mike made a quiet but strong impression on more people than he will ever know. He was a loving husband, a dedicated father and a mentor to many. He leaves behind his wife of 19 years, Melanie; daughter Sara and her boyfriend Blake Housley; mother, Mary Walker; sister, Barbara Sandy; brother John Walker and wife Lillie; in laws Mary and Richard Bennett; several nieces and nephews and a host of extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, John in 1991. A visitation will be from 1-3:00 PM Saturday, May 1 at Speaks Suburban Chapel, and services will begin at 3:00 PM. Private family burial services. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Drag Racing Association of Women (DRAW) whose sole mission is providing financial and emotional support to qualified individuals involved in a drag racing accident at a track, www.drawfasthelp.org or the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.speakschapel.com